The PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin isn’t just another aftermarket magazine; it’s a statement. This 32-round 9mm magazine promises to enhance the firepower of your Draco NAK-9 or similar AK-style pistol, offering more capacity and, potentially, a more aggressive aesthetic. The appeal of maximizing magazine capacity in a pistol caliber carbine is undeniable, and the ProMag offering enters the market with an attractive price point.
I’ve always been drawn to pistol caliber carbines (PCCs) for their versatility and ease of handling, especially in close-quarters scenarios. My main motivation for seeking out this magazine was to increase the round count for range days and potentially home defense situations. I was looking for a reliable magazine that wouldn’t break the bank and could feed reliably in my NAK-9.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid, though the polymer construction was immediately evident. The ProMag offering didn’t quite have the same heft as some of my steel magazines, but it felt robust enough for its intended purpose. The black polymer finish was consistent and reasonably well molded, though there were slight molding lines visible upon close inspection.
Compared to factory Glock magazines (which can be adapted to work in some 9mm AK platforms) and even some of the higher-end aftermarket Glock-style magazines, the PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin felt a little less refined. However, the price difference was significant, making it a compelling option if performance proved satisfactory. Ultimately, I chose it for the price point and the promise of 32 rounds of 9mm in a readily available, AK-compatible format.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if the ProMag could deliver on its promise of high capacity and reliable feeding without the hefty price tag. While the build quality seemed adequate, the true test would be its performance at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin involved a couple hundred rounds of mixed 9mm ammunition. This included both brass and steel-cased ammo, as well as various bullet weights. I tested the magazine in my Draco NAK-9 at an outdoor range in relatively dry conditions.
The first few magazines loaded without any major issues, although I did notice the follower felt a little gritty compared to my Glock magazines. I experienced a few failure-to-feeds within the first 50 rounds, especially with steel-cased ammunition. After the initial hiccups, the magazine seemed to “break-in” a little, and the feeding became more consistent, though not flawless.
The most significant issue I encountered was the “wobble” reported by other users. The magazine didn’t fit as snugly as I would have liked in the magazine well, leading to slight movement during firing. This wobble didn’t seem to affect function significantly after the initial break-in period, but it was definitely noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds through the PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin, it has proven to be reasonably reliable, though not without caveats. The feeding issues have largely subsided, but the wobble persists. The polymer construction shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to fairly rough handling and multiple magazine changes.
Cleaning the magazine is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the follower keeps it running smoothly. Compared to my experience with other aftermarket magazines, the ProMag requires a bit more attention to cleanliness to maintain consistent performance. This is especially true if you’re shooting dirty or steel-cased ammunition.
Overall, the ProMag hasn’t completely disappointed, but it hasn’t exceeded expectations either. It offers a high-capacity option at an affordable price, but this comes with some compromises in terms of fit and finish compared to premium magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin boasts the following specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm – Designed to feed 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition.
- Capacity: 32 Rounds – Significantly increases the firearm’s capacity compared to standard pistol magazines.
- Origin: Aftermarket – Not manufactured by the original firearm manufacturer.
- Construction: Black Polymer – Lightweight and durable polymer construction.
- Compatibility: Draco NAK-9 and potentially other 9mm AK platforms – Specifically designed for the NAK-9 but may fit other compatible firearms.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the magazine’s performance, reliability, and overall usability. The 32-round capacity provides a significant advantage in terms of firepower, while the polymer construction helps keep the weight down. The aftermarket origin means quality control might not be as stringent as OEM magazines, so testing is critical.
Performance & Functionality
The PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin generally performs its primary function of feeding ammunition into the firearm, but it’s not without its quirks. Its strengths lie in its high capacity and affordable price point. However, it exhibits some weaknesses in terms of fit and feeding reliability, especially during the initial break-in period and with certain types of ammunition.
The magazine does meet expectations for providing increased capacity, but falls short of delivering the flawless performance of higher-end magazines. If absolute reliability is paramount, this might not be the best choice.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price. The polymer material feels reasonably durable, but the overall finish lacks the refinement of more expensive magazines. The ProMag is lightweight, which is beneficial when carrying multiple magazines.
The magazine is generally user-friendly, but the initial loading can be a bit stiff. Some users may find the “wobble” in the magazine well to be annoying.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent malfunctions.
Repairing the magazine is difficult, as replacement parts are not readily available. It’s more practical to replace the entire magazine if it becomes damaged.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin does not come with any included accessories. There are no customization options directly related to the magazine itself.
Compatibility with accessories for other magazines is limited, as it’s specifically designed for the Draco NAK-9 and similar platforms. Users may find that aftermarket magazine pouches designed for Glock magazines will work, but fit may vary.
Pros and Cons of PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Affordable Price: The ProMag offers a high-capacity option at a significantly lower price point than many competitors.
- High Capacity: The 32-round capacity provides a substantial increase in firepower.
- Lightweight: The polymer construction keeps the weight down, making it comfortable to carry multiple magazines.
- Decent Durability: The polymer construction holds up well to regular use and handling.
- Increased Firepower: Offers a notable advantage in scenarios where a high round count is desirable.
Cons
- Feeding Reliability: Can be prone to feeding issues, especially during the initial break-in period and with certain types of ammunition.
- Wobble: The magazine may not fit snugly in the magazine well, leading to noticeable wobble during firing.
- Sub-Par Fit and Finish: Does not quite match the build quality and tolerances of more expensive OEM or high-end aftermarket magazines.
Who Should Buy PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want to increase the round count of their Draco NAK-9 or similar 9mm AK platform without breaking the bank. It’s also suitable for recreational shooters who prioritize capacity over absolute reliability.
Those who should skip this product include shooters who demand flawless reliability, especially in critical situations like self-defense or competition. Also, individuals who are unwilling to tolerate any magazine wobble should consider alternative options.
A must-have modification would be carefully inspecting and potentially polishing the follower and feed lips to improve feeding reliability. Having a reliable magazine loader is also highly recommended due to the magazine’s high capacity.
Conclusion on PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin offers a compelling value proposition for shooters seeking increased capacity at an affordable price. While it’s not without its flaws, the ProMag delivers acceptable performance for recreational use.
The price is justified for what you get: a high-capacity magazine that, with some potential minor tweaks, functions adequately. I would recommend it with the caveat that users should test it thoroughly with their chosen ammunition and be prepared to address any initial feeding issues.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to maximize the firepower of your NAK-9 on a budget, the PROMAG DRACO NAK-9 9MM 32RD Black POLY – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is worth considering. Just remember to test it extensively and manage your expectations accordingly. Now, get out there and put some rounds downrange!